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Archive for Cool Places to Visit

5 US Camping Locations to Add to Your Bucket List

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 September 29, 2014
Joshua Tree National Park

The United States offers a diverse number of campsites for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. Out of the thousands of camping opportunities across America, however, only some can be considered bucket-list material. These five camping locations have been rated some of the best in not only the United States but the entire world.

1. Sahale Glacier Camp (North Cascades National Park)

Washington

Sserious backpackers need to add Sahale Glacier Camp to their bucket list. Although it takes work to reach the camp, the views at 7,686 feet make the exhaustion are exhilarating. You’ll feel as though you’re on top of the world!

2. Arches National Park

Utah

Natural beauty makes this national park one of the best. Home to more than 2,000 natural stone arches, Arches National Park is also filled with breathtaking landscapes and colors unlike any others in the US. Be sure to stop any evening activities so you can take in the awe-inspiring sunsets.

3. Joshua Tree

California

At first glance, Joshua Tree might not seem like an enjoyable campsite, let alone a bucket-list destination. However, the rugged terrain that stretches over 800,000 acres offers diverse plant and animal life, large boulders for rock climbers, and a beautiful night sky that will make it hard to sleep.

4. Glacier National Park

Montana

This national park is great for hikers as its many trails provide incredible views of the mountains, glaciers, and lakes. If you have your RV, you can take the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which is 50 miles long and threads right through the mountains.

5. Badlands National Park

South Dakota

Get a glimpse of history by traveling to Badlands National Park. The park contains the largest collection of Oligocene epoch fossils, which are 23 to 35 million years old. You also can’t beat the acres of pinnacles and spires, which together create an incredible scene.

Does your bucket list need a new adventure? Consider adding a camping trip to your list and then check it off!

The 5 Best Places to Camp While at Yosemite

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 September 22, 2014
Yosemite National Park

With breathtaking waterfalls, deep valleys, beautiful meadows, and a vast amount of scenic wilderness to explore, Yosemite is not a national park that can be fully appreciated in just one day. Luckily, the park offers 13 campgrounds where visitors can stay and take in all that Yosemite has to offer. Here are five of the most popular options to consider.

1. North Pines

North Pines is one of Yosemite’s most popular campgrounds due to its beautiful views, great central location, and cooling shade. There are 81 sites available and RVs up to 40 feet are allowed.

2. Tuolumne Meadows

Yosemite is a popular place to camp in the summer. Usually, you need to book your spot months in advance. Half of the campsites in Tuolumne Meadows are first-come, first-served campgrounds, which means you can still camp without a reservation. Located in the Sierra Nevada at 8,775 feet, this campground is the perfect location for hikers.

3. Yosemite Creek

Yosemite Creek is just an hour from the valley and is also first-come, first-served. One of the more secluded campsites, it is good for campers who prefer privacy, peace, and quiet on their trips.

4. White Wolf

Those who enjoy the views of the high country but don’t want to spend their trip backpacking can camp at White Wolf. The campground is at an elevation of 8,000 feet and has trails leading to Lukens and Harden Lakes. It also contains a ring fire and food storage locker. It is located only 30 minutes away from the grocery store, so you can bring along your portable kitchen and cook a gourmet meal easily.

5. Wawona

Wawona campground is in a great location, close to Mariposa Grove and the Merced River. Take in the beautiful sequoia trees or spend the afternoon fishing by the river.

Summer is going by fast, but it’s not too late to plan your camping trip at Yosemite. Browse through the different campgrounds available and consider which site offers the best camping experience to you!

5 Summer Music Festivals That Offer the Perfect Camping Getaway

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 May 30, 2014
Summer Music Festivals

The music festival scene continues to grow in popularity, which is no surprise as it combines the exciting experience of listening to live music with one of summer’s best activities: camping. Join in on the fun by camping out at one of these five summer music festivals and experience a trip unlike any other!

1. Bonnaroo

June

Manchester, Tennessee

If you’re looking for musical variety, Bonnaroo is for you. It’s one of America’s largest music festivals and offers a wide range of music styles, including jazz, country, indie rock, and pop. Bring a tent or drive your RV to the festival. The camping area can get crowded, but you’ll make plenty of new friends!

2. Summer Set Music Festival

August

Somerset, Wisconsin

If you prefer a more low-key festival and camping experience, spend some time enjoying Wisconsin’s Summer Set Music Festival. Music ranges from indie to hip-hop. When you’re ready to take a break from the live shows, you can spend some time relaxing and tubing down the Apple River.

3. Countryfest

June

Cadott, Wisconsin

Put on a cowboy hat and get ready to rock out to some of your favorite country tunes. Countryfest puts together an impressive lineup featuring some of country’s biggest artists ranging from Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley. You can choose to camp on-site or find a campground nearby.

4. High Sierra

July

Quincy, California

Bring your whole family to the High Sierra music festival. Besides a varied selection of music genres that includes jazz and bluegrass, this festival offers fun activities for both kids and adults. There are plenty of places to camp on- or off-site, and you can also camp in a tent or RV.

5. Firefly

June

Dover, Delaware

Many nationally known artists perform at the Firefly music festival each year, and this summer is no exception. Guests can set up camp near their cars, and they also have the option to purchase a “glamping” package, which provides air-conditioned tents and cots with blankets and pillows.

Bring your friends or family together for a weekend of music and camping. Don’t wait too long before buying your tickets, though—they go fast!

5 Best Places to Camp with Your Dog

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 May 20, 2014
Camping with Your Dog

Your beloved dog is not just a pet. He’s your best friend and part of the family. So why not take him camping, too? These five campgrounds are dog-friendly, so you’ll never have to leave your furry friend at home while enjoying the great outdoors.

1. Shenandoah National Park

Out of 500 miles of scenic trails, there are only 20 miles that do not allow dogs. That leaves plenty of territory for you and your pet to explore! On a long hike, enjoy seeing the beautiful waterfalls or spend some time bird-watching.

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

As long as your dog is on a leash no longer than 6 feet, he can go almost everywhere you can, including the campgrounds, picnic area, and the Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail.

3. First Landing State Park

For a small fee of five dollars a night, you can bring your pooch with you camping in any of First Landing State Park’s 200 campgrounds. The park offers a wide variety of activities for you and your furry friend to enjoy, such as swimming, hiking, or picnicking.

4. Normandy Farms Family Camping Resort

Take your whole family, including your dog, with you camping in Massachusetts. From hiking to sports to swimming, this beautiful camping resort offers plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy.

5. Grand Canyon National Park

Experience one of top places to visit in the US with your doggie. This incredible site is even better when you’re in good company! As long as your dog’s on a leash, she can go on any of the trails above the rim and in the developed areas.

Don’t let your beloved pets sit at home bored this summer. Bring them on your next adventure and enjoy camping together! To find more campgrounds that are pet-friendly, search by state at Pet-Friendly Travel.

5 Fun Outdoor Activities for Kids

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 May 2, 2014
Family Bird Watching

In our last few blogs, we’ve discussed the dangers of nature deficit disorder and the benefits of spending more time in nature. Now it’s time to start combating the disorder and strategize about ways to get kids outside. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of fun outdoor activities for kids! Whether you’re on a family camping trip or at the local park, these outdoor activities are a great way to pry kids away from their video games and tablets so they can spend more time connecting with nature.

1. Bird-watching

Birds are incredible creatures, and quietly appreciating them can make for a profound experience. Before you head to a local nature preserve or hiking trail with the kids, stop by the nearest library to find a book about different kinds of birds. Then grab your binoculars and sunscreen and enjoy a relaxing afternoon of bird-watching in the park.

2. Go on a scavenger hunt

On your next camping trip, start an adventure by creating a scavenger hunt! Have the kids go around in search of natural elements like pinecones, a wildflower, or river rocks. Whoever finds the most wins! This is a great way to get children to open their eyes to what’s around them and identify various types of trees and plants.

3. Hula hoops

Visiting local parks is a great opportunity to spend time in nature. On your next trip, bring hula hoops for your kids and start a contest to see who can go the longest without the hula hoop falling to the ground. This is a fun way for kids to stay active, and it doesn’t even feel like exercise!

4. Go on a hike

Plan a day trip and go on a hike with your kids to enjoy the amazing scenery of various nature trails. Hikes allow you take in everything nature has to offer and to really savor its beauty. Bring a lunch made using your portable kitchen, then enjoy eating while sitting on a rock in the sun without distractions.

5. Take a swim in the lake or ocean

Why go to a pool when there are beautiful lakes and oceans to enjoy? On a really hot day, pack up your beach things and head to your favorite water spot with the kids.

The weather is starting to warm up, so try any of these fun activities with your kids. A simple dose of nature is the best cure for nature deficit disorder and will put everyone in a good mood.

Camping Inspiration: 5 Best RV Parks in the United States

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 March 7, 2014
RV Camper Traveling on Forested Road

If you love camping and the thrill of the open road but hate being stuck in a stuffy vehicle for hours on end, then RV camping is the perfect solution. Recreational vehicles allow you to enjoy long road trips in a more comfortable manner—and without compromising your camping adventure.

Ready to take on the open road? Check out our list of the five best RV parks in the United States and start planning your next adventure.

1. Yosemite Pines RV Park, California

The Yosemite Pines RV Park is located only 22 miles away from the actual national park and offers plenty of views and activities to keep everyone entertained during their stay. Spend your time hiking or panning for gold with your family in the campground’s gold mine!

2. Boyd’s Key West Campground, Florida

Craving warm weather, sandy beaches, and saltwater fishing? Then head down to Key West, Florida, and stay at Boyd’s Campground. Be sure to hit up Duvall Street, which hosts a sunset celebration every evening.

3. Rivers Edge RV Park, Alaska

If you’ve always wanted to go to Alaska, RV camping provides a great way to enjoy this beautiful state. The peaceful campground is near various historic sites, including gold mining towns you can spend time exploring during the day. There are also plenty of biking and walking trails to keep everyone active throughout the trip.

4. Horse Thief Lake Campground, South Dakota

Horse Thief Lake Campground is conveniently located near many popular tourist attractions such as Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Mountain. The campground itself also offers tons of activities to make it worth your stay, including horseback riding and fishing along with beautiful, rustic scenery.

5. Squaw Flat Campground, Utah

If scenic landscapes are your top priority, Squaw Flat Campground is the perfect place to park your RV. The site is famous for its Native American rock paintings and captivating stone pillars. It also offers an incredible three-mile hike to a nearby park.

Once you experience RV camping, you may never want to travel another way again!

For more tips on the best places to camp, see:

Big Sur Campgrounds to Get You Inspired for the Upcoming Camping Season

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 March 3, 2014
California Coastline Big Sur

Camping in Big Sur, California, is a magical experience. With a rugged coastline, stunning views, and plenty to do, it’s no wonder so many people travel west to Big Sur when wanting to spend time in nature. Consider these Big Sur campgrounds for your next camping trip.

1. Pondorosa Campground

Great for family camping, Pondorosa is located right in the mountains of Big Sur. This campsite offers trails for biking and hiking and is near the Nacimiento River, which is perfect for fishing and cooling off. Along with savoring the scenic mountains, campers will enjoy seeing beautiful oak and sycamore trees.

2. Fernwood Campground

Not ready to leave behind your RV? No problem. Campers have the choice between tent and RV camping in Fernwood. This campsite is conveniently located near Pfeiffer State Park, where you will find sky-high redwoods and breathtaking mountain views while enjoying access to various hiking trails.

3. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

This beautiful state park offers two hike-in environmental campsites. If you’re looking for gorgeous landscapes, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is the ideal camping spot for you. The park is made up of redwoods, tan oaks, and madrones. It boasts an 80-foot waterfall and a panoramic view of the ocean.

4. Kirk Creek Campground

If you like to spend most of your time at the beach, consider Kirk Creek Campground. This campsite offers the best view of the ocean and is near Sand Dollar Beach, a popular site for surfing, swimming, and fishing. The campground is also located right by many trails that are excellent for hiking and bicycling.

5. Plaskett Creek Campground

Enjoy the best camping has to offer at Plaskett Creek Campground. Stunning views of waterfalls and redwoods along with paved trails make this campsite popular for hiking and exploring. When you need to cool off, head to Sand Dollar Beach, the largest sandy beach in the Big Sur. RVs and tents are both welcome.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next camping adventure at one of the many Big Sur campgrounds and get ready for an incredible experience.

For more tips on the best places to camp, read these other posts from My Camp Kitchen:

5 National Parks That Offer the Best Campgrounds in the US

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 February 21, 2014
Yosemite El Capitan

Already planning your next big camping trip? Here are five of the top-rated, best campgrounds in the US to get you inspired.

1. Glacier National Park, Montana

If you’re a serious backpacker, you’ll love camping at Glacier National Park. The campground area is surrounded by the Flathead National Forest and is located by numerous rivers, lakes, and streams for hikers to enjoy. If you prefer camping in comfort, Glacier also offers sites for RVs.

2. Yosemite National Park, California

If you prefer camping in the comforts of your RV complete with cooking supplies and comfortable beds, then Yosemite National Park is a great camping option. Yosemite has 10 different campgrounds that allow RVs and trailers. Known for its beautiful waterfalls, lush forests, and striking cliffs, Yosemite National Park offers an unforgettable camping experience for its scenic views alone.

3. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend’s most popular campground, Chisos Basin Campground is surrounded by rocky cliffs that will fill you with awe. Although you’ll be camping in Texas, the basin is at a higher elevation and is often the coolest campground in the park. People who enjoy bird watching will love camping at this popular nesting site for migratory birds.

4. Channel Islands National Park, California

Do you like hiking? Snorkeling? How about bird watching? Channel Islands National Park offers extraordinary landscapes to explore and delightful camping experiences. East Anacapa Island is one of the more popular campsites as it is only 12 miles from the mainland and offers plenty to do, including kayaking, scuba diving, and swimming.

5. Olympic National Park, Washington

RV and tent campers alike can enjoy camping at Olympic National Park. If you’re looking for the best campsite within Olympic, Kalaloch campground offers scenic views, hiking trails, beautiful beaches, and tide pools filled with starfish and sea urchins.

Feeling inspired already? Wherever you choose, these national parks are sure to please the camper in you.

For more on the best places to camp, check out these posts:

How to Choose the Best Place to Camp on Your Next Big Trip

Posted by My Camp Kitchen //
 February 17, 2014
Beautiful Campsite

Trying to choose the best place to camp on your next big trip? While you can’t guarantee a perfect pick every time, you can choose a campground that is more suitable to your liking. Just consider these four questions during your search to help narrow down your options.

1. How much of the week do you want to spend driving?

Even if you’re taking a week off to go camping, a lengthy drive can make it feel like you’re only getting three or four days to camp. Consider how much time you want to be on the road versus camping. If you would rather spend most of the week cooking up meals by the campfire and swimming in the lake, choose a campsite nearby or just a day’s drive away.

2. Are you bringing kids?

Children can play a large part in determining which campground you choose. If you have younger kids who aren’t experienced campers, it’s best not to travel far away or to an area without showers or bathrooms. If, on the other hand, your kids are older and have been camping many times, you can broaden your options.

3. What kind of outdoor activities do you enjoy?

Activities like swimming, canoeing, rock climbing, hiking, and fishing are common camping activities, but some campsites have better lakes while others offer nicer hiking trails. Determine which activities you enjoy the most and then find the campsites considered best for each.

4. How authentic do you want your camping experience to be?

If the thought of camping somewhere without typical bathroom facilities freaks you out, there are plenty of well-developed campgrounds that offer showers and toilets as well as a great camping experience. If your camping style is more primitive, then try to locate a spot that’s at least 100 feet away from a water source.

No place is perfect, but these questions will help you get a better idea of what you’re looking for in a campsite so you can enjoy your trip even more!

For more on the best places to camp, see these posts:

A Camp Kitchen Built for Rugged Overlander Conditions

Posted by Richard //
 November 10, 2011
Jeep Splashing Through Water with My Camp Kitchen Outdoorsman

We tried to break it! And I mean we really tried. My friend Johnny was kind enough to do the honors.

We have a favorite campsite in the Rockies up above the town of Como, Colorado. There is a great four-wheel drive trail in the mountains just beyond the campsite. This is where we took the Outdoorsman for a ride. You can watch the video at our Videos page.

The Outdoorsman was packed with the normal gear we use on camping trips. This includes a single-burner propane stove, a small propane lantern, a couple of propane canisters, a pot and pan set, utensils, silverware, savory spices, extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, paper towels, plates, cups, a Henkel knife set, a number of nonperishable food items, and a bottle of wine.

Sunday morning, Johnny showed up bright and early along with Herb, Matt, and Sarah (three of my kids); John, our videographer and my nephew; my brother Dorraine and his wife, Ruth; and Mike, a good friend from Canada. We packed up the Outdoorsman and strapped it onto the hitch platform Johnny uses to tote extra gear on his Jeep. Herb drove his SUV with John and his video gear. Herb opened the sunroof on his SUV, and John stood on the seat with half of his body and camera outside.

The first couple of miles is a modest gravel road, then we turn off onto a US Forest Service four-wheel drive road. This is when the fun really began. Johnny loves speed and rough rides, so he was right at home going as fast as he could over the rocks and rough terrain and through many water crossings. From the point at which we started on the FS road, it is about 10 miles to the continental divide overlooking Breckenridge. My brother, five years my senior, drove Sarah’s truck to the divide—a major feat for someone who doesn’t like to drive. He’s no wimp, that’s for sure.

Neither was the Outdoorsman. It was exposed to it all—dust, water, and a rough beating. You have to see the video to appreciate it.

After reaching the summit, we paused for a breather and took photos of the spectacular views. Then we headed back down just below tree line to our favorite campsite.

It was then that we set up and opened the Outdoorsman and found everything was intact!! Nothing broke, and it was dry inside despite all of the water it had been exposed to. Some dust did find its way in, but nothing that got in the way of cooking a great meal. I was very pleased.

We certainly don’t recommend such abuse on a regular basis, but taking the Outdoorsman four-wheeling with sane drivers is a piece of cake.

My sincerest thanks to everyone who tried so hard to break my kitchen.

Happy camping and cooking,

Richard

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“We love our Camp Kitchens! Our old patrol boxes were built from plans. They were very heavy, and the legs were hard to assemble. Our Camp Kitchens were easy and fun for a group of Scouts to put together. The instructions were easy to follow, and the parts were well-organized. Everything fit together perfectly. The Camp Kitchens are well-designed and much easier for our Scouts to carry. All of our necessities fit neatly inside. In addition, set-up is easy when we arrive at camp. Thanks, My Camp Kitchen!”

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“The Camp Kitchen is just absolutely perfect and fits exactly how we wanted it to in our four-wheel pop-up camper. It is really well-thought-out, and I’m SO glad I didn’t try to build a DIY as I was previously planning. You have put a lot of camping experience into every little detail. And it is built for an air drop! It’s funny how excited my wife and I are about The Outdoorsman kitchen box, considering we have tens of thousands of dollars tied up in all sorts of technical outdoor gear. Your camp kitchen is truly worth every penny. Congrats on a classic.”

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“You make an awesome product! … Arrived home today to My Camp Kitchen waiting on my porch. Couldn’t wait to open it up and see the new improvements. I could not be happier!! The new legs are fantastic!! And having the extensions be able to stay with the box and not have to tote separate is just the ticket. We just placed our three kids’ names in a hat and drew the lucky winner of our old unit. Our oldest daughter won and promised to share with the other two and keep it in the family always. Thanks again for making a great quality product that we can be proud to pass on.”

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“Nothing competes with camping. There is no remote-control camping. So when you get a kid out there making a fire, prepping foil dinners, roasting marshmallows, playing silly campfire games, and walking around in the dark with a flashlight, he is thrilled in a way that cannot be duplicated by technology. Go, Dad!!!!”

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“I want to tell you how delighted I am with the camp kitchen. We went camping this past weekend and found cooking to be easy and storing the gear convenient. Thank you also for the towels, coffee filters, and wine glasses. We used these as well. I will recommend this unit to everyone I know who camps.”

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“We are so pleased with the custom table [designed to fit in our Teardrop trailer]! When my husband opened it and put it together, he said he wanted to use it as a standing desk in his office!! I am just so pleased to have such a beautifully designed and high-quality camp kitchen! I value these qualities in my NON-camping life … so it was wonderful to find that you were making something like this as most of the camping stuff out there is just awful!!! It has also been a great pleasure to work with you all. Thank you for all that you do!”

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